CREWE boss Dario Gradi was delighted with the way his side ground out their first point of the new season against Rovers on Saturday.

After losing 2-0 at Fulham on the opening day, Gradi had called on his players to show more fighting spirit.

And, after frustrating the First Division's promotion favourites, he now believes his side can go forward with the confidence over the rest of the campaign.

"I thought we gave them a good game," said Gradi.

"We didn't make a lot of chances, they looked the side most likely to score and we survived a bit of a scare at the end.

"But it was a much improved and more spirited performance without anyone being particularly outstanding. "We defended well, particularly on the edge of the box, and I'm sure Efe Sodje was pleased with his performance.

"I pick him out because he hasn't played at this level before whereas the others have.

"But we've shown that whoever we play in this, we can do well so that should give us confidence.

"And I bet the lads just wish they could play Fulham again now."

Gradi was left to think of what might have been after Alex carved out the best chance of the match in the opening two minutes.

But Alan Kelly kept out Colin Little's point blank header and they never really threatened again.

"That was the best chance of the game and we should have scored," said Gradi.

"It was a super cross and he should have put it away from there.

"But it's just nice to get off the mark."